The collection consists of the papers of the Hillyer family from 1805-1990 with the bulk between 1805-1874. Materials from the early years (1805-1819) pertain to Shaler Hillyer and consist of a letter and account book describing Petersburg, Elbert County, Georgia. The collection contains a memoir written by Junius Hillyer describing life on his family's plantation, slavery, the family's move to Athens, Georgia (1821), Junius' attendance at grammar school, descriptions of and activities at Franklin College (University of Georgia). Also includes photocopies of letters from William Dickerson and Peter Wellborn Martin, friends of the Hillyers; materials pertaining to the publication of THE LIFE AND TIMES OF JUDGE JUNIUS HILLYER; and dedication of a marker at the Freeman Hillyer homeplace in Popular Grove, Georgia.